British rock musician Chris Rea performs during his first German concert of "The Return of the Fabulous Bluenotes" tour in Munich, Germany, on February 7, 2008. CHRISTOF STACHE / AP
Chris Rea, the British singer-songwriter best known for the hit "Driving Home for Christmas," has died at 74, his family announced on Monday, December 22.
"It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Chris," a spokesperson for his wife and two children said, in a statement shared with UK media. "He passed away peacefully in hospital earlier today following a short illness, surrounded by his family."
A post on his official social media channels added: "Chris's music has created the soundtrack to many lives, and his legacy will live on through the songs he leaves behind." No further details were immediately provided.
One of the UK's most-loved festive songs
